Detroit has a reputation – we all know it is the Motor City. But every January, the engines roar loader when NAIAS rolls into town. The North American International Auto Show is still going on at Cobo Hall and inside not only will you find the brands and vehicles you know and love, but the latest in technology, autonomous vehicles and even luxury waiting for you to experience. NAIAS is one of the few times you can not only touch your dream car, but may be able to slide into the driver seat and feel that leather on your skin.

This year’s NAIAS featured new product launches form Ford, Volkwagen, Chevy, Toyota, KIA and many others. It offers guests the opportunity to see where technology is taking cars, and what we should expect in the near future from self driving cars, personal plane taxis and even a personal chauffeur service that will be heading to major cities soon. NAIAS continues to be one of the largest candy stores for car enthusiasts and offers everything for gear heads to those who want to be pampered.

There are so many new products, safety innovations and even car brands (new to our market) this year at NAIAS, but no matter where you looked there were two trends that overwhelmed the others – trucks and luxury. Smaller vehicles are still on the floor, but they’re giving way to larger vehicles as consumers want a vehicle that can not only accommodate the whole family but do the heavy lifting when needed.

Luxury vehicles are around every corner offering the technological and safety advancements to the higher market pricing. But items that started with the more luxurious brands just a few years ago are now at the base consumer level, and trickling down to a more affordable market. Sedans of all price points are now offering luxury features and comfort within a budget that almost everyone can assume.

While NAIAS is the perfect place to scope out your dream cars, and where innovation is leading the car industry – it’s also a great place to take a day and explore and have fun with your family. From activities you can do with your kids, custom videos you can share and even your own LEGO figurines, NAIAS this year is a great place to explore the automotive industry and what actually drives the Motor City.

Ford New Product Launch:

Volkswagen New Product Launch:

Be Sure to stop by the Ford booth to make your own LEGO figurines and take them home after the show!

Ticket Pricing

– Adults: $14 per person
– Seniors: $7 (65 and older)
– Children: $7 (7-12 years old; 6 and under free with a parent or guardian)
PLEASE NOTE: Every child in a school group must have a ticket to enter the show.

Becky is an interior designer, an adjunct professor, a foodie, a product reviewer and a gluten free blogger in Detroit, Michigan. Week99er is a family friendly site featuring products, events and recipes for your family. Contact her at [email protected]